The best things to do in Rye England
One of the cutest towns to visit in England, today I’m going to be sharing all the best things to do in Rye. I grew up in Sussex, yet somehow didn’t visit Rye until last year, and I don’t know what took me so long. If you’ve been thinking of visiting, definitely don’t make the same mistake as me and not get round to planning a trip sooner. This picturesque town should be high up on your UK bucket list!
Rye is close to the south coast of England, and makes a perfect day trip from London. This small town has the most charming little historic streets, a great foodie scene and is also close to lovely beaches and Sussex countryside.
The best things to do in Rye
1. Explore the Medieval Streets
Rye is known for its beautiful medieval streets and I’d suggest exploring some of these as the perfect way to start your adventure in Rye. A few of the best medieval streets to visit in Rye are Mermaid Street, Church Square and The Mint. These streets all have cute cobble lanes and timber-framed houses, they’re perfect for exploring and losing yourself in time for a few moments. If you’re into photography, definitely bring your camera as these street
Rye High Street is also lovely, with a mix of great places to eat and drinks, interesting shops to browse and more pretty houses.
If you’re into photography, definitely bring your camera as the historic streets of Rye are all just picture perfect. For the best photo opportunities it’s best to get to Rye earlier in the day, as it gets busier with tourists as the day goes on.
2. Mermaid Street
One of the most iconic streets in Rye, Mermaid Street deserves a mention all to itself. Mermaid Street was voted the most instagrammable street in the UK and it’s not hard to see why. This hilly cobblestone street is lined with super pretty medieval houses and is a photographers dream.
Visit early in the morning, or evening before the sun goes down, for a quieter experience and a beautifully lit street.
3. The Cobbles Tea Room
After exploring the streets, a visit to The Cobbles Tea Room is the perfect way to relax and enjoy some traditional English refreshments. The tea room offers a variety of teas served in charming teapots with fine china cups and saucers. Homemade cakes, scones, and pastries are simply delicious, and the tea room itself is cozy and inviting, with a warm and friendly ambiance.
For a quintessentially British experience, try their afternoon tea. The tea room can get busy, so consider making a reservation to secure a spot. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local specialties, such as Sussex cream tea.
4. The Mermaid Inn
As one of the oldest inns in England, The Mermaid Inn is not just a place to stay but a historical attraction in its own right. Each room is uniquely decorated with period furnishings, offering a taste of history and luxury. The Giant’s Fireplace Bar, with its massive fireplace and centuries-old beams, is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink. The inn is reputedly haunted, with numerous ghost stories adding to its allure.
If you can, book a room to fully immerse yourself in the inn’s history and charm. The inn’s restaurant is highly regarded, so make a reservation to ensure you get a table. Take some time to explore the various nooks and crannies of the inn, each steeped in history.
5. Camber Sands
If you’re lucky enough to visit Rye on a sunny summer’s day, you should definitely combine it with a visit to Camber Sands. Just a short drive or bus ride from Rye, Camber Sands is a gorgeous beach with golden sand dunes. One of the absolute stand-out beaches in Sussex, it’s a lovely place to go for a coastal walk or just relax by the sea.
If you’re visiting Camber Sands, you can also stay in the very lovely close by Gallivant hotel.
6. Globe Inn Marsh
For a great food & drink option in Rye, head to Globe Inn Marsh, a cosy and quirky local pub on the outskirts of Rye. They offer a selection of local ales, ciders and wines and a delicious food menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.
7. Tillingham Winery
For wine lovers, a visit to Tillingham is a must. This vineyard and winery – a quick drive or taxi ride from Rye – offers a unique opportunity to taste some of the best wines produced in the region. Enjoy guided tastings of Tillingham’s wines, learning about the production process and the different varieties. Take a tour of the vineyard and see how the grapes are grown and harvested. The on-site restaurant offers a delicious menu featuring fresh, local ingredients.
Tastings and tours can fill up quickly, so book in advance to secure your spot. Tillingham is known for its exceptional sparkling wine, so be sure to give it a try. Consider staying in one of their beautifully designed rooms for a complete vineyard experience.
9. Views from the Top of St Mary’s Church
For some of the best views in Rye, climb to the top of St Mary’s Church. This historic church offers panoramic views of Rye and the surrounding countryside from the church tower. The climb to the top involves a narrow and steep staircase, so be prepared for a bit of a workout (but the views should make it worth it!) The church itself is a beautiful example of medieval architecture and its grounds offer a lovely peaceful retreat from the town.
How to Get to Rye from London by train
The train from London to Rye is a great convenient and scenic option. You can catch a train from London St Pancras International to Ashford International, then from Ashford, you can a direct train to Rye. The total journey takes just over an hour. Rye’s train station is conveniently locate just a short walk from the town centre.
If you’re getting the train definitely book your tickets in advance if you can, as it’s usually much cheaper than getting them last minute.
Where to stay in Rye
If you’re planning a little break in Rye, there are quite a few lovely options for an overnight stay. One standout is The Whitehouse, a stylish boutique bed and breakfast with individually designed modern-meets-vintage rooms and a great cafe and bakery downstairs. The super cosy and historic Mermaid Inn is another great choice.
The George in Rye – a stunning Georgian hotel in the heart of Rye – is ideal if you’re planning a weekend away. Or for a something a little different, you can book a stay in a converted windmill with peaceful countryside views – Rye Windmill B&B.
Lastly The Gallivant, near the sandy shores of Camber Sands, offers a gorgeous coastal escape with its beach-house style rooms, spa treatments, and acclaimed restaurant focusing on local, seasonal produce.
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